Weekend Guide to Lisbon

From stunning tiled buildings, colorful neighborhoods and delicious food – Lisbon is the perfect getaway. Referred to as the San Francisco of Europe, Lisbon offers a bridge similar to the Golden gate bridge, trams and lots of hills! This fascinating city is filled with nearly 1000 years of history and some of the kindest people. To give you some ideas on what to do on your weekend in Lisbon, I’ve put together a Lisbon weekend guide, full with must-dos, places to eat/drink, plus a few tips.

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WHERE WE STAYED

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON HOTEL LISBON – FONTANA PARK (2 NIGHTS)

FONTECRUZ LISBOA – AUTOGRAPGH COLLECTION (2 NIGHTS)

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THINGS TO DO

FREE WALKING TOUR OF LISBON

The Free Tour of Lisbon with Sandemans starts by the Camões Monument in Largo de Camões and has many different starting timing throughout the day. Just look for the team in red SANDEMANs NEW Europe T-shirts! You will visit Bairro Alto, The Great Earthquake of 1755, Chiado, Baixa Pombalina, Carnation Revolution, Rossio Square, Praça do Comércio, Portuguese Inquisition, Carmo Convent, The Age of Discovery, Salazar dictatorship, Santa Justa Elevator and The Jewish Memorial. I found this to be a great introduction to the city and you can familiarize yourself with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. You visit many areas of Lisbon in just a few hours and can always go back to your favorite spots later. Tour lasts 3 hours and is tip based.

TRAM 28

Lisbon is famous for its number 28 yellow tram and is one major reason why people visit. There are actually a number of trams that run all over the city. It costs about 3 Euros per person and services run from around 6 am until 9 pm. You can purchase a ticket from the driver or a machine onboard. This tram runs from Campo de Ourique to Martim Moniz, but the most fun part is winding through the narrow streets of the Alfama. Take it the whole way up to Campo de Ourique to pass through Barrio Alto and see the Basilica de Estrela.

The classic 1930s trams are still in use today because the tight curves and steep hills are unsuitable for modern trams. One of the most memorable things to do in Lisbon is riding in the bright yellow 28 tram. Like San Francisco, Lisbon is a city known for its historic tram lines.

NOTE: Unfortunately, as this is a major tourist route, there is a pick-pocketing problem on the 28. Always keep your valuables where you can see them, especially when the tram is crowded.

ALFAMA

Alfama is probably the best known of all Lisbon districts, and justifiably so. Getting lost in the maze of picturesque narrow streets, alleys, and stairways of Alfama, and dining in one of its traditional restaurants or Casas de Fado (restaurants where you can listen to live Fado music) are mandatory things to do in Lisbon. And, of course, there’s also a viewpoint you cannot miss: the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

In order to really experience Lisbon’s authentic Portuguese way of life, spend some time navigating the district of Alfama, the capital’s oldest and most historic district.

MIRADOURO DE SANTA LUZIA

This is a nicely decorated little landing that has a great view over Alfama to the river. You can see the red tile roofs and the active shipping commerce on the river.

No Lisbon photography is complete without a photo from one of the many Miradoures. Lisbon is built upon seven hills and the city is literally full of viewpoints where you can get some great captures from above.

BELÉM

A short train ride from the Cais do Sodre station in Lisbon on the Cascais line will take you to the picturesque district of Belém. A day trip here would be incomplete without a visit to Pasteis de Belém, a bakery known for inventing Portugal’s signature pastry, Pastel de Nata. Grab a couple of these warm, custard-filled treats. Try one sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon!

The Tower of Belém is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was originally built on an outcropping of rocks but as the shoreline next to it has changed over time it is now very close to the riverbank and at low tide, it looks completely connected. I definitely recommend visiting Belem, not just for the pastries, but to walk around and admire all that this charming district has to offer. Don’t forget to go see Jeronimos Monastery, which is also located in Belém.

SINTRA

Sintra is a must-visit as there are many landmarks to admire, such as the Pena Palace and the Castelo dos Mouros. An hour-long train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio station will take you to the picturesque town of Sintra. We purchased tickets at the ticket booth in the station. Once we arrived in Sintra we used Uber to get us around. If you’re on a budget, you can always use the bus system.

Sintra is surrounded by lush, green hills, it seems to be coming out of a fairy tale with all of its palaces and castles. The most famous is the Palácio Nacional da Pena, which has been declared a UNESCO World heritage site.  I highly recommend you dedicate a day to visit Sintra!

BAIRRO ALTO

Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s most popular nightlife district. Bairro Alto is a typical old quarter made of cobbled streets, small houses and cafes. There’s also trendy boutiques and restaurants catering for a younger population. At night, the restaurants, bars, and clubs open their doors, the streets become flooded with people, and the party begins.

PINK STREET

Lisbon’s Pink Street on Rua Nova do Carvalho is known for clubs, bars, and restaurants. Rua Nova do Carvalho was turned into “Pink Street” as part of a rehabilitation project in 2011 to turn former Lisbon red light district into a trendy spot for nightlife.

FIERA DA LADRA

In the old neighborhood of Alfama, you will find the oldest market in Lisbon. A legendary flea market with many different objects that vintage-lovers visitors will love. Feira da Ladra means ‘thieve’s market’, so you should take this quite literally and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t be afraid to negotiate as it’s part of the experience. The market is held every Tuesday and Saturday, from dawn to dusk.

SAO JORGE CASTLE

Located in a hilltop overlooking the city, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views over Lisbon and the Tagus River. The medieval castle has several gardens and viewpoints, a citadel and terrace. It is classified as a national monument, and one of the most visited Lisbon tourist sites. The castle was restored after being severely damaged by an earthquake in 1755.

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WHERE TO EAT

Lisbon Winery – The perfect place for wine and cheese lovers. Selection includes wines from small producers and artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. This restaurant is located in Barrio Alto.

Cervejaria Ramiro – Rated the best seafood in Lisbon. Best shrimp I’ve ever had and I don’t even like shrimp! Make sure you make reservations well in advanced online. When I went the line was wrapped around the block!

Time Out Mercado da Ribiera – Time Out Market is a concept created from scratch by the Time Out Portugal team with only the best ideas and business projects in Lisboa – according to the editorial team. If it’s good, it goes in the magazine, if it’s great, it goes into the market. 24 restaurants, 8 bars, a dozen shops, a cooking school and a high-end music venue, all with the very best in Lisbon (the best chefs, the best steak, the best hamburger, the best sushi and the best live performances, amongst others); on the other hand the market is home to some of the city’s best known (and longest-running) market vendors of meat, fish, fruit and flowers. The foodhall has 40 restaurants/shops served by more than 500 seats in covered area and 250 more outside.

Pasteis de Belem – This is known as the best bakery town for the famous pastel de nata. Make sure you arrive EARLY to avoid a long queue.

Want to experience somewhere less touristy, but with an award winning pastel de nata? Visit Pastelaria Aloma, since you came this far, do not just eat Pastéis de Belém and leave. 

Manteigaria – is tucked away in the Time out Market, right on the Chiado stretch, spitting distance from the metro and luring in any that happen to wander through Praça Luís de Camões. They serve pasteis de natas – no more, no less. And they do it well. Pasteis are the adorable little egg custard tarts that are basically synonymous with Lisbon. The line sometimes spills out on the streets, but service is prompt. There’s also coffee, espresso, and hot chocolate if you’re looking for something to pair with your pasteis. MUST STOP FOR DESSERT! 

Pistola y Corazon – If you’re looking for a break from Portuguese cuisine tonight, then check out this local Mexican spot for some delicious tacos and margaritas.

Taberna da Rua das Flores – A small taberna with 7 tables. High quality food. Go early for dinner if you don’t want to wait. No Reservations restaurant.

Portas Do Sol – Beautiful view and delicious food in Alfama. After touring Castelo de Sao Jorge, you can stop here for a pitcher of sangria and a bite to eat.

Zambeze Resturante – Beautiful restaurant in Alfama with a great view. Make sure to sit on the terrace/patio.

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WHERE TO DRINK

If you’re wanting to see the city by night, then Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are unquestionably the places to be.

• Pensao do Amor – a former brothel now renovated into one of Lisbon’s coolest bars. 
• BA Wine Bar do Bairro Alto – A wonderful evening tasting the olive oils, cheeses and charcuterie of Portugal along with wines carefully picked out from an extensive collection. Click here for reviews.

• By The Wine – By The Wine is a cosmopolitan and trendy restaurant located at Lisbon’s heart. At the historical city centre, one can find a unique ambient, extraordinary gastronomy options that leaves no-one indifferent. To go together with the very special and exclusive wine selection of José Maria da Fonseca – oldest winemaker’s family in Portugal –By The Wine offers various gastronomic options that include, among others, homemade bread from the Algarve, Iberian acorn ham and country sausages from Guijuelo (Salamanca area), a choice of cheese boards, Sado (river) oysters, mussel’s salad, salmon ceviche, carpaccio, entrecote and also desserts to go with the Muscatels from Setúbal, such as chocolate cake, almond tart and the typical “ Torta de Azeitão”.

Bars with a view: Lisbon has a good share of panoramic bars with breathtaking views. Here are some suggestions:  

• Sky Bar in Tivoli Hotel 
• Memmo Príncipe Real

• Park  

• Limão Chill-Out Terrace

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IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW

• Portugal uses the Euro for their currency.
• Portuguese is spoken in Portugal which is a unique language and not to be confused with Spanish. English is widely spoken around the popular tourism areas of Portugal, like Lisbon, Cascais, and Sintra.

• If you are going to tip I’d suggest 10%. Having small Euro denominations comes in handy for places that don’t offer tipping on credit cards.

• Portugal uses a 2 prong type F AC plug, which is different from the US and UK system. You’ll need to purchase an adapter.

• Lisbon’s sidewalk mosaic tiles are gorgeous but also quite slick. Be sure to wear proper shoes to avoid a fall.

• Trams are a part of Lisbon’s public transport and can be a great way to get around, however popularity with tourists has also made it quite popular with pick pocketers as well. 

• Lisbon is land of the Sardines so be prepared to see them on lots of restaurant menus! There are even stores that sell canned sardines as souvenirs to take home.

• Try Ginjinha (or simply ginja) a Portuguese liqueur that is made from ginjha berries, alcohol and sugar alongside other ingredients. Ginjha berries are like sour cherries and the drink is a thick red color. It’s a very popular drink in Lisbon.

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